Bernard comes back to home ground

ONE of the region’s foremost hoteliers is returning to his native Northumberland to take the lead role at one of its finest establishments.

Bernard Bloodworth, who has worked in the industry for 30 years, has been appointed General Manager of Matfen Hall Hotel.

Mr Bloodworth, who grew up in Alnwick, joins the business from the AA five red star Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa, where he saw its restaurant The White Room gain a coveted Michelin star.

He will be responsible for overseeing Matfen’s entire hotel operation, from individual stays to meetings, events, dining, outdoor pursuits and charity functions.

He said: “Matfen Hall is a special place with an excellent reputation.

“My aim is to work with all of the staff to implement some of the skills and ideas I have learnt over the years to take the hotel to the next level in terms of the services and facilities it offers to all its guests.”

Mr Bloodworth lives with his wife and three children.

He replaces outgoing General Manager Rhys McKinnell, who is moving on to run the catering operation for Fenwick’s department store in Newcastle.

Sir Hugh Blackett, who owns the hotel, said: “First of all, we would like to thank Rhys McKinnell for everything that he has done for Matfen Hall and we wish him every success in the future.

“Equally, we would like to welcome Bernard Bloodworth to the team.

“We look forward to working with him on continuing to improve and grow all the aspects of the hotel’s service.”